Gemotions

The champagne cork exploded, smacking the ceiling fan. Dust motes danced in the sudden, blinding light of the chandelier. Elias laughed, a sound that bounced off the high, sterile walls of his apartment. He’d won! Finally, the recognition he craved. A validation, not just of his talent, but of his life’s work. He refilled his glass, the liquid sparkling like captured starlight.

He swirled the wine, watching the red bleed against the crystal. The press conference was tomorrow. He’d be there, front and center, basking in the glow of the spotlight. He could practically taste the sweet, heady scent of victory.

He picked up the phone and dialed his mother. “Mom, guess what? Remember that book? The one everyone was raving about? Well…let’s just say things are about to get very interesting.” He winked at the mirror, his reflection mirroring his excitement.